He may not have won American Idol, but Chris Daughtry is the king of the album charts this year, according to Billboard. The Idol finalist's band, Daughtry, sold 3.2 million copies of their self-titled debut, making it the most popular album of the year, according to the trade magazine.

The "Guitar Hero" series might be all the rage for amateur axers, but those who want to progress beyond five colored buttons and a single strum bar and truly teach themselves to play have another high-tech option.

A rash of recalls is forcing toy-drive organizers to throw away lead-tainted items and recruit extra volunteers to inspect donations this holiday season to ensure that dangerous gifts aren't distributed to needy children.

O.J. Simpson must face trial on kidnapping, armed robbery and other charges stemming from a suspected sports memorabilia heist, a justice of the peace ruled Wednesday, despite defense attacks that characterized prosecution witnesses as crooks out for a buck.

The reunited Police generated the most live-music excitement this summer, playing to sellout crowds and raking in $91.3 million. The band was easily the biggest single act in a season that was light on flashy marquee acts but rife with consistent performers.

USA TODAY book reviewers give you a quick read on four new "best of" collections, starting with short stories and guest editor Stephen King and weaving through crime reporting, fresh fiction and stories from the South.